Physical Therapist

Physical therapists diagnose and treat individuals with conditions that limit their ability to move and perform daily activities. They develop personalized treatment plans involving therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities like ultrasound and electrical stimulation. The BLS reports a median salary of $99,710 with 14% projected growth, much faster than average. A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and state licensure are required.

A Day in the Life

A typical day starts by reviewing patient charts and setting up treatment stations. The morning involves working with a post-knee-replacement patient on range-of-motion exercises, treating a teenager's sports injury with manual therapy, and evaluating a new patient with lower back pain. After lunch, the therapist leads a group balance class for older adults, documents progress notes, and calls an orthopedic surgeon to discuss a patient's recovery timeline.

Key Stats

Required Skills